Location: Public areas throughout Minsk and the rest of Belarus.
Event: The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens to exercise increased awareness and vigilance regarding potential rallies, assemblies, protests, and demonstrations within the Republic of Belarus related to the presidential elections on August 9 and following the official announcement of election results on August 10.
Due to increased political activity, campaign events, protests, and demonstrations during which participants and journalists have been detained and arrested, U.S. citizens are advised to avoid public areas throughout the country on election day, Sunday, August 9, and Monday, August 10, the day the election results are expected to be officially announced.
Although the U.S. Embassy is not aware of legally authorized demonstrations or protests which may take place on August 9 and 10, such events may occur spontaneously with increasing frequency or little advanced notice ahead of and following the August 9 presidential elections. The Embassy reminds U.S. citizens and Embassy personnel that authorized or unauthorized gatherings could develop at various locations throughout Minsk or the country.
The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens to avoid public demonstrations, to remain aware of their surroundings, and that gatherings intended to be peaceful can quickly become confrontational and escalate into violence. Furthermore, these activities may cause disruptions to public transportation services, traffic delays and/or street closures, and an increased police presence around rally sites.
Actions to Take:
- Avoid mass gatherings.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Carry proper Identification, including a U.S. passport with a current Belarusian visa or valid visa-free entry stamp.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Minsk, Belarus
+375 17 210-12-83 / 217-7347 / 217-7348
+375 29 676-0134 (after hours for American Citizens)
consularminsk@state.gov - State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 - Belarus Country Specific Information
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
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